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Radishes

Bora King Radish

RD755

45 days. Bora King was crowned the most unique-looking radish in our trials. These elongated, deep plum-colored roots are an exciting addition to any radish patch. Grows 7-8 inches long without developing a pithy core while still maintaining a delicious flavor. The tops have an equally interesting coloration with deeply serrated leaves on purple and green stems.

Raphanus sativus: Radishes are best sown in spring or late summer, maturing when days are shorter, sunlight weaker, and temperatures milder; though some varieties are better able to handle summer conditions. The mildly spicy roots, low in calories and rich in fiber and cancer-fighting antioxidants, have good qualities as a digestive tonic or to clear the sinuses and ease sore throats. Anti-microbial properties made them a detoxifier in traditional medicine, and couple with high vitamin C for an immune boost. Don't discard the tops, as they are even denser with nutrients.

CULTURE: Direct sow radish seed in the garden March through August. The season may be extended from February through October by sowing in cold frames or a greenhouse. Although they do better in moderately fertile soil, radishes will successfully mature almost anywhere. Prepare the bed by working compost into the top 2-3 inches of soil. Space rows 8-12 inches apart. It is essential to thin promptly. Radishes have shallow root systems and need abundant water. Dry or crowded conditions will slow growth and make roots hot or pithy.INSECTS: Flea beetle damage (pinholes in leaves) can reduce the growth rate and quality of radishes. Control heavy infestations by frequent spraying with a Pyrethrin spray or using an insect barrier or row cover such as Reemay or Grow Guard 20. Root maggot populations can also be reduced by using a row cover. You can reduce the amount of time (and therefore the damage) that root maggots have to invade the radish root by encouraging rapid growth, followed by prompt harvesting.DISEASE: Almost completely disease-free.HARVEST: Harvest promptly before they become pithy, split, or get hot. Make multiple sowings for a steady supply throughout the season. You can also let a few plants bolt or go to pod. The pods have a crunchy, mild radish flavor. Store at 34°F and 95% relative humidity.SEEDS SPECS: Minimum germination standard: 80%. Days to maturity calculated from date of direct seeding. Usual seed life: 4 years.